TAX TIME: Here’s how to get free help at three local libraries

We’ve mentioned a few sessions in our daily event lists but with two months to go until the federal tax deadline, local branches of the Seattle Public Library want to be sure you know they’re offering free tax help at some branches – three in this area, Southwest, West Seattle (Admiral), and South Park. Here’s what you need to know:

Trained volunteers will answer questions and help prepare personal tax returns. This service is free and available to individuals only. The service is not available for business tax returns. Drop-in tax help is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Southwest Branch: Fridays, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm through 4/11 via AARP Foundation (Appointments preferred)

West Seattle Branch: Thursdays, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, & Saturdays, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm via AARP Foundation (Appointments preferred)

South Park Branch: Saturdays & Sundays, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm through 4/19 in English and Spanish, via United Way of King County (this service has eligibility requirements)

What to Bring to Free In-Person Tax Help

Required:
-Photo identification
-Social Security cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for everyone listed on the tax return
-Proof of income, for example, W2s and 1099s (Social Security benefits)
-Official documents on Social Security Administration letterhead
-Medicare card (if Social Security number is followed by an “A”)
-Be prepared to provide information about health care coverage for each person on the return

Recommended:
-Last year’s tax return, if available
-Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of refunds

Photocopies or computer print-outs of any these documents will be accepted. Original documents highly recommended.

Same-day appointments have been available, we’re told, but looking further ahead is your best bet.

P.S. Reminder that all Seattle Public Library locations will be closed Monday (February 17) for Presidents Day.

8 Replies to "TAX TIME: Here's how to get free help at three local libraries"

  • Brian February 14, 2025 (12:57 pm)

    Given, uh, *vaguely gestures at everything*…. maybe just skip it this year. What’s the worst that could happen 

    • oerthehillz February 14, 2025 (1:39 pm)

      Doubled fines and federal prison

      • k February 14, 2025 (8:57 pm)

        Who is going to fine them or prosecute, when all federal employees are being let go and the Justice department is being gutted?

  • ltm..mgm February 14, 2025 (1:28 pm)

    Speaking of a different tax today is when you can see you 2025 property tax online . Just have to enter your address and or parcel# top left corner/line.
     https://gismaps.kingcounty.gov/parcelviewer2/

    • WSB February 14, 2025 (1:49 pm)

      That’s on my list for mentioning later. (checks) Ours went up just under $15/month …

      • ltm..mgm February 14, 2025 (2:42 pm)

        Ours went up just over $20/month but my mom in laws went up $50.00 😞

        • k February 14, 2025 (9:06 pm)

          Mine is going up by $70/month, but we had a HUGE jump in appraised value this year.  I think they finally figured out we remodeled everything.  But the assessed value is still $100k below the market value, so I can’t complain too much.  Still paying less than I should.

    • 1994 February 14, 2025 (10:59 pm)

      My rate increased $75 monthly, $905 for the year. I earn under 6 figures…..so the ever increasing taxes hurt.

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